What are the symptoms of postural hypertension?

A symptom that starts after standing and settles after sitting or lying down is useful information, but it cannot diagnose the cause. Some people feel a pounding heartbeat, pressure in the head, blurred vision, unsteadiness, warmth or nausea. Others have a high reading without feeling different. These experiences can also occur with dehydration, medication effects, anxiety or other conditions, so the blood-pressure change and the symptom timing need to be assessed together.

Sit or lie down if you feel unsteady, and rise slowly when the feeling passes. Note what you were doing, how quickly the symptom began, your posture, the reading and any recent medicine, meal or drink. Use a properly fitting cuff and avoid repeated checks within a few minutes. Book a medical review for recurring episodes; take the record and your medicines to the appointment.

Get emergency help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, new confusion, a sudden severe headache or sudden loss of vision. Seek prompt advice for repeated palpitations, worsening headaches or episodes that are becoming more frequent.

Ask whether your symptoms fit the timing of the blood-pressure change, whether your medicines need review, and how to measure safely at home. Ask which symptoms should lead you to emergency care.